What Size Awning Do I Need?

What size awning do I need? 

It’s a question every person buying a retractable awning needs to ask themselves.  

But the truth is, there are a range of factors that go into determining the right awning size for a home or business.  

So, we’ve compiled a list of some important considerations to help you choose the right size retractable awning to perfectly compliment your space. 

Awning Size Guide – Measurements To Know

Awning Width

Awning width refers to the total width of the awning on the wall where it is mounted. For most awning models, standard width will range between 4 – 8 metres for a single system. 

Some awning models can also couple two or more systems together for large-scale coverage beyond 13m. An important consideration if you’re looking to cover a large courtyard, deck or garden area. 

Awning Projection

Awning projection is how far the awning extends away from the wall. The length of projection determines how much shade coverage the awning will provide and cannot exceed 4.5 metres.  

As a rule of thumb, awning projection should be 0.5m less than the width. For example, if an awning is 3m wide, we recommend a projection of 2.5m.  

Awning Pitch

Pitch is the sloping angle of the awning from front to back. It allows rain and debris to run off without compromising head height or shade coverage.  

Pitched awnings are less prone to damage as water runs off quickly without pooling and damaging the fabric. They also provide more shade for longer, especially from the afternoon sun. 

A popular pitch angle is around 14° for standard patio awnings, but this can range anywhere from 5° – 45° to suit your requirements and will be set in place by your installation team. 

3 Factors To Consider When Choosing Awning Size

1. The Space You’re Covering

For larger outdoor areas, you’ll want to look for an awning model with a generous width and projection, or models that can pair two or more systems together for extra coverage. 

Helioscreen’s Fabric Cassette and Classic Awning models have a maximum projection of 4.5 metres, so they’re ideal for shading expansive decks, gardens or outdoor dining areas. For smaller areas like balconies and patios, Helioscreen’s Cocoon Cassette and Rubix Cassette models extend up to 3.5 metres and are perfect for smaller balconies, patios and shop fronts.   

2. The Awning Location

In Australia’s long, hot summers, the last thing you want is to endure hours of blazing afternoon sun. That’s why it’s important to consider the location of your awning when determining its size. 

For buildings with an east or west facing exposure, an awning with a 4-4.5m projection is preferable to keep your spaces shady for longer. Areas that are north or south facing won’t require as much shelter and can get away with smaller models to provide adequate shade.  

3. Awning Clearance

Having adequate clearance for your awning is essential to ensure it functions properly and stays safe from damage. 

Consider the area you wish to install your awning and determine if there is anything that may stop it from extending properly, such as branches, poles, swinging doors or fences. From here, you can speak with your retractable awning supplier to discuss the best options to suit your space.  

Choose Australia’s Leading Retractable Awning Supplier

Retractable awnings are a valuable investment for any outdoor setting. They add style, comfort and flexibility to your home or business. So, when choosing an awning, it’s important to look for a vendor that offers a quality product built to last.   

Helioscreen is Australia’s leading supplier of retractable awnings for a variety of residential and commercial applications. As a quality guarantee, all our awning models come with a 5 year warranty on the motor, fabric and hardware, so you know they’re made to last.   

Contact us today for more information on a model to best suit your needs.